SIR: Extended timelines spark controversy across states
The Election Commission of India plans multiple timeline extensions for the special intensive revision of electoral rolls. Bihar completed its process quickly, but most other states needed additional time. Delhi has the most extensions, now totaling over 176 days. Several states, including Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, are facing delays in finalising their electoral rolls. These prolonged timelines reflect ongoing issues with voter application discrepancies and entry verifications.
Bihars JD(U) Celebrates 23 Years of Development and Good Governance
On its 23rd anniversary, JD(U) leaders emphasize the partys commitment to social justice and development in Bihar under Nitish Kumars leadership. Bihars JD(U) Celebrates 23 Years of Development and Good Governance
In a tight-spot after storm whipped up by the newly born Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) on the shear strength of Gen Z raking up NEET and other examination paper leaks, and related fallacies in the education system affecting the youth; although the issue was already being raised by Congress leader Mr Rahul Gandhi but got a fillip after the Gen Z movement. The Narendra Modi government and the ruling BJP-led alliance (though some of the ruling allies have exhibited their unease over the issue), has endeavoured to see red in the expression regime change. It seems to be an attempt to corner the opposition I.N.D.I.A bloc and the CJP, they have only talked about peaceful protest as means of change, through the narrative of regime change and portray them as working against the national interest. The ruling dispensation of the current era (read BJP) have perfected the art of setting narratives and counter-narratives as diversionary tactics and as means to corner the political opponents. In the process, not minding even if the process becomes vicious. This process in itself seems to have reached a saturation stage and with entire gamut of SIR-related operation of the ECI getting public traction, they need to relook into this strategy with a positive frame of mind. Yes, Mr Gandhi, other leaders of the opposition alliance, CJP/other youth leaders and social activist/lawyer Mr Prashant Bhushan, have been facing a major political backlash from the BJP and indirectly from the government over remarks regarding regime change. The ire is directed more against them for targeting the Narendra Modi government under the garb of happenings in the ECI. Why has the word regime and phrase regime change suddenly become a hot potato for BJP to handle? Or does this reflect signs of insecurity for the most powerful government/ruling party in the world? What is the dictionary meaning of the word regime? It is just for the sake of clarity on something which is nothing new to be used in political parlance of the country and which found a greater expression in the then opposition leaders, including towering one of the then Bharatiya Jan Sangh (BJS) and now BJP, scathing attacks against Prime Minister Mrs Indira Gandhi particularly on imposition of internal emergency in 1975. The powerful opposition brigade using the term Indira regime (reference to the authoritarian nature of her administration) and the far-cry to oust it was led by Congress (O) leader and later Prime Minister Mr Morarji Desai. It included top BJS leader Mr Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Mr L K Advani, apart from Mr Jayaprakash Narayan who spearheaded campaign against Mrs Gandhi, another former Prime Minister Ch Charan Singh and socialist leader Mr Geroge Fernandes. And many others and including the maverick Mr Raj Narain who defeated Mrs Gandhi in Rai Barelli. According to AI a regime is a system or method of governing a country, organization, or institution, or the specific group of people currently holding power. The Cambridge dictionary terms it as a particular government or system or method of government. The Wikipedia defines it; in the context of national politics, it typically refers to the system of political organization that determines access to public office, and the extent of power held by officials. Does in any way, under the shadow of these definitions and given the history of Indira Gandhi-era, expression regime change reflect hatching of a conspiracy? It does not seem so. And on top of that a strong dispensation such as Narendra Modi government need not fear what at best could be the political usage of the expression. They have the wherewithal to expose conspiracy, if any. Political scientists often categorize regimes as being democratic, autocratic, or hybrid in the academic sense of the term. However, in everyday language, a regime is an authoritarian or unjust government. There is nothing unparliamentary or unconstitutional in these expressions which were very rightly used, at times even crossing limits of niceties, during the 1975-77 phase by the then opposition leaders and their young cadres. In the present context the regime change mention has come in the light of alleged charges of manipulating electoral rolls with a motive to help the ruling party. Obviously, the reference has been made in order to build public opinion and convince the people that their votes could be safeguarded only through a regime change. The underlining factor is voter-lists without wholesale deletions and alleged arbitrary inclusions, and which are above any doubt. The BJP strategists seem to have lapped up the regime change opportunity with both the hands. The party president, Mr Nitin Nabin led the charge through a post on X which read; The use of terms like regime change has exposed the true agenda of the opposition.. This nefarious attempt to destabilise India in collusion with foreign powers is part of the agenda of urban naxals. The oppositions fight is not for electoral reforms, SIR, or the future of the countrys youth but rather to spread anarchy in the country and seize power at any cost. Mr Nabin must decipher from the archives, as he was born in the year when the party which he heads now was born in 1980, as to how often phrase regime change was used by his senior leaders and how often Mrs Gandhi and her coterie described the oppositions movement as aided and abetted by foreign powers. Colourful theories were touted by the then opposition leaders as to how erstwhile USSR was helping Mrs Gandhi win elections through the use of a mysterious ink-pad and ballot paper; wherever you stamp it will appear on Congress symbol, was the oft repeated charge. Fact of the matter is that despite all such charges flying thick and high and the mysterious foreign hand at play, Mrs Gandhi lost the election in 1977, even losing her own seat. Majority of the opposition leaders including Mr Vajpayee and Mr Advani won the election to become Union Ministers for the first time. The regime change had taken place through an impartial, free and fair election for which credit must go to Mrs Gandhi, notwithstanding excesses committed during the imposition of internal emergency. The regime change did not connote any conspiracy at that point in time and the expression is finding place during the present movement against SIR and other failures of the government, in the same spirit. As a counter to BJP presidents assertion invoking urban naxal and foreign powers syndrome behind oppositions regime change metaphor, opposition is firm on its stand and so are the CJP activists. Mr Gandhi and other opposition alliance leaders maintain that their protests and criticisms are rooted in constitutional rights, democratic resistance, and fighting alleged capture of state institutions. And that there is nothing unconstitutional, illegal or anti-national in talking of a regime change using peaceful means through the expression of ballot.
Photo expo, runway week begin in Patna
Bihar womens education film wins UN SDG Award
Portuguese historian explores Indus Valley civilisation at Planet Patna
Govt briefs corporates on Bihars CSR policy
Education, panchayati raj departments get lions share of infra projects in Bihar
CM expresses gratitude to PM for financial support to farmers
Bihar BPSC Cancels Recruitment for 1,711 Assistant Professors
The Bihar Public Service Commission has cancelled the recruitment process for 1,711 Assistant Professor positions in state-run medical colleges. This decision affects advertisements numbered 04/2025 to 28/2025, initially set for appointments under the Health Department. Candidates are advised to stay informed about future updates from the BPSC regarding new recruitment processes and requirements. For more details, visit the official BPSC website.
PMC raises Rs 200 cr through maiden municipal bond to fund city infrastructure projects
CM: Protect Bihars water needs before renewing Ganga treaty
Bihar Ministers Highlight Government Support for Farmers Amid Economic Challenges
Bihar ministers emphasize governments commitment to empower farmers through technology and financial aid, addressing opposition claims. Bihar Ministers Highlight Government Support for Farmers Amid Economic Challenges
HC summons DPO over teachers attendance
HC orders Rs2L compensation for bulldozer victim
The News Mill
West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari sends Rs 50 lakh relief for Bihar father-son killed in Chorbagan
West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has sent two compensation cheques of Rs 25 lakh each to the family of a father and son from Muzaffarpur who lost their lives in the Chorbagan stampede tragedy. Following the heart-wrenching incident in Chorbagan, Kolkata, which claimed 19 lives, the Chief Minister Adhikari personally met with the grieving families of the 17 victims from West Bengal to provide financial assistance, according to a press release issued by the Chief Minister
Manoj Jha Criticizes EVMs and Central Government Policies in Bihar
Manoj Jha of RJD criticizes the use of EVMs and highlights unemployment issues in Bihar, questioning government priorities. Manoj Jha Criticizes EVMs and Central Government Policies in Bihar
ABVP seeks respect for constitutional institutions
Police bust fake currency racket, arrest one in East Champaran
PMC workers firm on strike from Nov 3
24-year-old woman found dead in Samastipur
NIA Nabs Accused In AK-47 Smuggling Plot
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Sandeep Kumar Sinha in Bihar for his alleged involvement in smuggling AK-47 rifles from Nagaland. The arrest follows the recovery of an AK-47 in Muzaffarpur and the NIA taking over the investigation in August 2024.
BPSC scraps recruitment of 1,711 assistant professors in govt medical colleges
Show-cause notices to 10 DTOs over poor revenue collection
ED attaches five properties worth Rs 2cr in constable paper leak case
Ex-cooperative officer convicted in 16-year-old graft case in Madhepura
SC asks Anant to surrender by Dec 1 in murder case
Gujarat doctor duped of Rs 1.50 crore over 8 years; retired professor among three held from UP
Digital Desk | Surat, Oct 30 (IANS) Three persons, including a 64-year-old retired professor, have been arrested for allegedly cheating a senior citizen doctor of around Rs 1.50 crore over eight years by promising refunds on insurance policies, with the police tracing the accused to Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh using a single mobile number that had since been switched off. The Surat City Cyber Crime Cell said on Friday that the accused had posed as representatives of the Insurance Ombudsman and persuaded the complainant to purchase around 15 insurance policies in 2018. After gaining his trust, they allegedly contacted him over the last two to three years, claiming that the money invested in his policies could be refunded if he paid various charges. The complainant was allegedly made to transfer money in small instalments of Rs 10,000, Rs 15,000, Rs 25,000 and other amounts. Over the period from 2018 to 2026, he lost approximately Rs 1,50,33,004 (Rs 1.50 crore), police said. The complainant approached the cybercrime police around two to three months ago. Investigators examined the mobile numbers from which he had received calls and WhatsApp messages and conducted technical analysis of their call detail records. A team subsequently spent a week in Ghaziabad tracing the accused on the basis of a single calling number, which had become inactive. The arrested accused have been identified as Atulkumar Sharma (64), a retired professor who holds BSc and MBA degrees and had worked at IMT College; Mahesh Sharma (43), who has worked in vehicle loan arrangements, electricity meter reading and as a salesman for an Ayurvedic medicine company; and Sonu Thakur (32), a Class 12 pass-out who had previously worked as a telecaller at a call centre. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Cyber Cell) Bishakha Jain, Atulkumar allegedly arranged SIM cards and bank accounts by approaching financially needy people on the pretext of helping them obtain gas connections. He got accounts opened in their names and retained the SIM cards, net banking credentials, passwords and bank kits before passing the SIM cards to Mahesh Sharma, she said. Mahesh allegedly forwarded the SIM cards and bank account details to Sonu Thakur, who used different mobile handsets to contact insurance policyholders and demand money on the pretext of processing refunds. Jain said, Sonu had worked in the call centre operations of insurance companies since 2018 and was familiar with the process of obtaining policyholder data. During searches, police recovered around 70 pages of printed Excel sheets containing insurance policyholders' details. The sheets had markings indicating which people had already been contacted and which were yet to be approached. The accused used these sheets to identify and call different victims. They would tell them that if they wanted their insurance policy money back, they would have to deposit a certain amount towards charges, Jain added. The money deposited by victims was withdrawn through the bank accounts arranged by Atulkumar. He allegedly retained 35 to 50 per cent of the withdrawn amount as commission and passed the rest to Mahesh, who kept another 15 to 20 per cent before transferring the remaining amount to Sonu. Police recovered nine mobile phones, 42 cheque books, 17 passbooks, 90 debit cards, 25 SIM cards of different companies, around 80 empty SIM card trays and Rs 28,740 in cash from Atulkumar. Two mobile phones were seized from Mahesh. From Sonu, police recovered three mobile phones, Rs 1.77 lakh in cash and 70 printouts containing policyholder details. Investigators also identified 47 bank accounts linked to Atulkumar on the basis of the cheque books and passbooks recovered from his residence. A check of these accounts on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (NCCRP) revealed 73 complaints registered across 15 states, involving alleged online fraud of approximately Rs 33.10 lakh. Telangana accounted for the highest number of complaints at 15, followed by Tamil Nadu with 14, Maharashtra with seven, Karnataka and Goa with six each, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan with five each, and Bihar with four. Gujarat accounted for three complaints, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh two each, while Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Tripura had one complaint each. The complaints could involve other cyber fraud groups as well, as such gangs were suspected of sharing policyholder data, DCP Bishakha Jain said. She said insurance policy frauds of this nature were frequently reported from Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad, where different groups allegedly exchanged data to target policyholders. The case has been registered under Sections 319(2), 318(4), 336(2), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, and Section 66(D) of the Information Technology Act, 2008. The police have advised insurance policyholders not to respond to unsolicited calls promising bonuses or refunds on policies and to verify such claims directly with the insurance company.
24th instalment of PM-KISAN scheme leaves farmers excited, express gratitude
Digital Desk | Ahmedabad, Oct 30 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the 24th instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme on Friday, transferring more than Rs 18,680 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 9.34 crore farmer families across the country from Bhildi in Gujarat's Banaskantha district. More than 9 crore farmers became the direct beneficiaries of the scheme, receiving monetary support of Rs 2,000 into their accounts, out of which 52.33 lakh farmer families received assistance exceeding Rs 1,051 crore in Gujarat alone. Gujarat Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani announced these figures while briefing the media, adding that the first 23 instalments of the scheme had resulted in the disbursement of more than Rs 4.47 lakh crore to over 11 crore farmer families across the country. After receiving the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN in their accounts, farmers expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister and stated that this will strengthen their means of livelihood, besides enhancing their ability to experiment with advanced farming practices. Farmers in Ranchi, Jamnagar, Motihari, Jalna, Bhubaneswar, and Patna received the financial aid under the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme. The farming community, which benefited from the 24th instalment of the PM-KISAN scheme, thanked the government. In Bihars Motihari and East Champaran district, the farmers said that the 2,000 assistance would enable them to purchase seeds for both Rabi and Kharif crops. Another farmer remarked that this would be beneficial for their agricultural activities. Notably, East Champaran became one of the leading districts, where farmers received about 86 crore in financial aid, a sum larger than that received by any other single district. A farmer said that the PM-KISAN assistance provides substantial support to farmers during both the Rabi and Kharif cropping seasons. Patna farmers echoed similar sentiments, stating that the money received under the scheme remains extremely useful in purchasing fertilisers and seeds. A beneficiary thanked the government for removing the middlemen and directly transferring the benefits into their accounts. There is absolutely no role of intermediaries; all farmers get the requisite help for fertilisers and seeds directly from the government. The scheme, in operation since 2019, has proven highly beneficial to the farming community, said another farmer. Ramnath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, joining the event virtually from Ranchi (Jharkhand), said that the funds provide essential support for farmers, helping them tide over crises. A similar event was organised at the Patel Samaj Bhavan in Jamnagar, Gujarat, with a large number of farmers in attendance. Heaping praise on the scheme, they counted the benefits of the scheme and explained how this reduced their dependence on others to procure fertilisers and seeds. One farmer, practising natural farming for the past 15 years, noted that he also got several benefits from his organic farming and was now encouraging others to adopt it. In Bhubaneswar, Odisha, farmers said that this helped them in times of exigency, helping them mitigate financial crunch during sowing of seeds and tilling of land. In Maharashtras Jalna, farmers said that this was proving to be of great help to them as they often use this money to buy seeds and fertilisers.
Tejashwi Yadav says court is doing its duty, as Anant Singh faces bail cancellation in murder case
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 30 (IANS) Mokama MLA Anant Singhs legal troubles have triggered fresh political exchanges, with Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly, Tejashwi Yadav taking a swipe at him following the Supreme Courts cancellation of his bail in the Dularchand Yadav murder case. Reacting to the Supreme Courts direction asking Anant Singh to surrender by December 1, Tejashwi said the court was simply performing its duty. He recalled that Anant Singh and his wife, Neelam Devi, had earlier alleged that the government was conspiring to frame him. However, after Anant Singh switched sides and supported the NDA, his perception of the government appeared to have changed. Earlier, he and his wife used to say that the government was framing him. But after he betrayed our party and switched sides, the government suddenly became good for him, Tejashwi remarked. Reacting to the JD(U), Tejashwi said he had repeatedly predicted that the JD(U) would cease to exist after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections and the subsequent Bihar Assembly polls. On the INDIA Blocs proposed rally at Ramlila Maidan on November 1, Tejashwi, who was heading to Delhi, appealed to people who wanted to protect democracy and uphold the Constitution, to participate in the event. The political differences between the RJD and Anant Singhs family date back to the Bihar Assembly floor test on February 12, 2024. Neelam Devi, then the RJD MLA from Mokama, broke ranks with her party and voted in support of Nitish Kumars NDA government. She had won the 2022 Mokama bye-election on an RJD ticket. Two other RJD MLAs, Chetan Anand and Prahlad Yadav, also went against the party line during the Trust Vote. Meanwhile, Anant Singh said he would comply with the Supreme Courts order and surrender by December 1. He expressed faith in the judiciary and hoped to secure bail again. He also repeated his allegations against JD(U) MLC, Neeraj Kumar, accusing him of orchestrating the murder of Dularchand Yadav and conspiring to implicate him in the case. Referring to former Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Anant Singh said, If Nitish Kumar were capable, none of this would be happening to me today. The Supreme Court cancelled the bail granted to Anant Singh by the Patna High Court, observing that the High Court had not adequately considered the nature of the crime and his criminal history. It directed him to surrender before the concerned authorities by December 1, 2026.
Bihar Museum ranks 9th globally, beats Louvre and Met Museum
In a historic global debut, the Bihar Museum in Patna has entered the top ten of the Worlds 100 Best Museums 2026 ranking released by Munich-based travel publication Worth a Journey. Ranking first in Asia and ninth globally, it stands as the sole Indian cultural institution featured on the prestigious international list. The 2026 assessment, Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
BSPP Advocate Recruitment 2026
Bihar Shiksha Pariyojana Parishad (BSPP) has released the official notification for the post of Advocate. The last date to submit the offline application is 11 November 2026. Further details are available at bepcssa.in.
The Bihar Museum Has Been Ranked In World's Top 10; Here's The Story Of How It Came To Be
BCECEB Senior Resident / Tutor Recruitment 2026 Notification Out
Bihar Combined Entrance Competitive Examination Board (BCECEB) has released Notification No. Sa.Sa.-17/Vividh-01-289/2026-1299(17) for the recruitment of 575 Senior Resident / Tutor posts. Eligible candidates can apply online at bceceboard.bihar.gov.in from 02 November 2026 to 23 November 2026.
BPSC Cancels Recruitment for 1,711 Assistant Professor Posts in Bihar Medical Colleges
Patna, October 30, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has cancelled the recruitment process for 1,711 Assistant Professor (Speciality) posts in government medical colleges and BPSC Cancels Recruitment for 1,711 Assistant Professor Posts in Bihar Medical Colleges
BPSC Cancels 1,711 Assistant Professor Recruitment; Fresh Advertisements in the Pipeline
The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) has cancelled its recruitment process for 1,711 Assistant Professor (Specialty) posts in medical colleges and hospitals across Bihar. The decision follows the withdrawal of petitions by the state's Health Department. The Commission has
Husband stabs wife over 150 times with scissors and knife on Karwa Chauth
Bihar MLC polls: RJD's Anil Jha declared elected, party's overall tally climbs to 17
The Election Commission has declared RJD candidate Anil Jha elected from the Darbhanga Graduates constituency in the Bihar Legislative Council elections. Jha defeated sitting BJP MLC Sarvesh Kumar by securing 25,406 votes against his rival's 21,396. The RJD has now won two of the eight seats contested, improving its tally in the Upper House to 17.
Keep an eye on non-NDA vote; it carries message: RJD MP Manoj Jha on Bihar's 8 MLC seat results
Following the declaration of results for the biennial Bihar Legislative Council (MLC) elections across eight constituencies (comprising four graduates' and four teachers' seats), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha on Friday asserted that the electoral outcome reflects an overwhelming undercurrent against the ruling coalition. Speaking to ANI, Jha emphasised that the consolidation of the non-BJP and non-JD(U) vote carries major implications for both state and national politics, while analysing the performance of non-NDA forces, including the RJD's significant gains, the emergence of Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party, and victorious independent candidates. Jha pointed out that the opposition has successfully rebuilt its grassroots presence where it was previously marginalised. The important point, if we set aside the prevailing meta-narrative for a moment, is that the non-BJP, non-JD(U) vote is overwhelming. Whether it is our own victories, those of Jan Suraaj, or the success of i...
Supreme Court directs expelled JD(U) MLA Anant Singh to surrender by December 1
The Bench directed the Bihar police to complete the investigation in the case within four months
Anant Singh's Bail In Dularchand Yadav Murder Case Cancelled By SC, Ordered To Surrender By Dec 1
The Supreme Court has cancelled the bail granted to expelled JD(U) MLA and Mokama legislator Anant Singh in the Dularchand Yadav murder case. The court directed Singh to surrender before the authorities by December 1, 2026, and gave Bihar Police four months to complete the investigation. The order came while hearing a petition filed by Dularchand Yadav's grandson, challenging the Patna High Court's decision to grant Singh bail in March. Singh is an accused in the murder case.
Expelled MLA Anant Singh To Surrender By Dec 1, SC Rules
The Supreme Court has ordered expelled JD(U) MLA Anant Singh to surrender by December 1 in the Dular Chand Yadav murder case. Singh, who was previously granted bail by the Patna High Court, faces a plea for bail cancellation. The court also directed Bihar Police to complete the investigation within four months.
The Supreme Court has set aside the bail granted to Bihar MLA Anant Singh in the Dularchand Yadav murder case, directing him to surrender by December 1. The decision comes amid his expulsion from JD(U), the withdrawal of his wife's official privileges and a petition seeking his disqualification from the Bihar Assembly.
Bihar Museum Ranks 9th Globally, Surpassing New York
Patna's Bihar Museum has emerged as Asia's highest-ranked museum and India's only entry in the 2026 global top 100 list, ahead of The Met and the Louvre.
Cyclone Arnab Triggers Red Alert in Two Bihar Districts, Warnings Issued for Others
Cyclone Arnab has led to severe weather warnings in Bihar, including heavy rainfall and strong winds. Residents are urged to stay alert. Cyclone Arnab Triggers Red Alert in Two Bihar Districts, Warnings Issued for Others
Gorakhpur-Bhuj Amrit Bharat Express Approved, New Train to Connect Gujarat, Rajasthan, UP and Bihar
Gorakhpur, October 30, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): The Railway Board has approved a direct train service between Bhuj in Gujarat and Bihar via Gorakhpur. It has also issued a Gorakhpur-Bhuj Amrit Bharat Express Approved, New Train to Connect Gujarat, Rajasthan, UP and Bihar
Cyclone Arnab puts two Bihar districts on red alert; weather warnings issued for others
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 30 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather warnings for several districts of Bihar on Friday under the impact of Cyclone Arnab, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. A red alert has been issued for Sitamarhi and Madhubani, where extremely heavy rainfall and lightning are likely. An orange alert has been issued for Darbhanga, Sheohar, East Champaran and West Champaran, with heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds of 40-50 kmph expected. Yellow alerts have been issued for several other districts, including Patna, warning of rain, thunderstorms and lightning. Residents have been advised to remain alert and follow district-specific weather advisories. According to the Meteorological Centre in Patna, the impact of the weather system is expected to continue until October 31. The IMD has also forecast a significant decline in maximum temperatures in several parts of Bihar, with cooler conditions likely after the rainfall. The changing weather has brought an early winter-like chill to parts of the state. Patna, in particular, has witnessed a notable fall in temperature amid cloudy skies and intermittent rain. The weather department has cautioned that heavy rainfall could lead to waterlogging and disrupt normal movement in affected areas. Strong winds and lightning also pose risks to people working outdoors. Residents have been advised to take shelter inside safe, enclosed buildings during thunderstorms. They should avoid open fields, refrain from standing under trees and stay away from exposed locations during lightning activity. The Meteorological Centre has also urged people not to pay attention to rumours and to rely on official weather bulletins and government advisories for accurate information. The IMD's latest district-wise warning indicates that adverse weather conditions are likely to persist in parts of Bihar through Saturday, October 31. Cyclone Arnab has heavily disrupted normal life in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The coastal areas of Odhisa, Jharkhand and Bihar are also affected by it.
Diwali and Chhath Special Trains: Northern Railway Announces Services for Bihar, UP and Other States
New Delhi, October 30, 2026 (Udaipur Kiran): In view of the additional rush of passengers during the Diwali and Chhath festivals, Northern Railway has announced several special trains Diwali and Chhath Special Trains: Northern Railway Announces Services for Bihar, UP and Other States
Bank Holidays in November 2026: Which festivals will lead to bank closures in various states? Check the complete list of holidays, from Chhath Puja to Guru Nanak Jayanti.Bank Holidays in November 2026: If you have any important banking tasks to complete in November, plan your dates in advance. Banks...
Overnight rain brings chilly weather to Delhi-NCR; AQI improves
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 30 (IANS) Incessant overnight rainfall brought a sharp change in weather across Delhi-NCR, lowering temperatures and ushering in a wintry chill on Friday, while also improving air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) falling to the satisfactory category in several areas. Several parts of the national capital witnessed steady showers late Thursday night, with visuals from Delhi's Hazrat Nizamuddin railway station and the Jamia Millia Islamia area showing rain-soaked roads and overcast skies. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi's overall AQI stood at 76 on Friday morning, placing it in the satisfactory category. However, monitoring stations across the city recorded varying pollution levels. Burari recorded an AQI of 71, while Badarpur registered 142, Uttam Nagar 144, Pusa 138, Sirifort 127, Dwarka Sector 8 126, and Jahangirpuri and Rohini 128 each. Other areas, including Jharoda Kalan, R.K. Puram, IIT Delhi, Narela, Najafgarh, Bawana and the Commonwealth Sports Complex, also recorded AQI levels ranging from 104 to 142. The improvement in air quality came after pollution levels remained above 200 on Wednesday and Thursday. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a yellow alert for Delhi and neighbouring National Capital Region districts on October 29, forecasting rainfall and thunderstorms over the following 24 to 48 hours. On Thursday, Delhi experienced its coldest October day in four years, with temperatures dropping 5.6 degrees Celsius below normal amid the weakening Cyclone Arnab. According to the Regional Meteorological Centre in New Delhi, Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram, and Faridabad are likely to experience generally cloudy skies, with one or two spells of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Light to moderate showers are forecast for Friday, with isolated heavy rainfall possible during the night. Weather conditions are expected to improve on October 31, when partly cloudy skies are likely across the region. No weather warnings have been issued for Saturday. From November 1, Delhi-NCR is expected to experience mainly clear skies and more stable weather conditions. Meanwhile, a low-to-moderate flash flood risk has been flagged until October 30 in vulnerable watersheds across several districts of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Vehicles to be locked and seized online; strict action in this state for unpaid e-challans
If you are from Bihar and have outstanding e-challans, you could face action. Failure to pay an e-challan could even lead to the seizure of your vehicle. Read on to learn the full details.In todays modern era, traffic violations are now tracked and penalized using cameras. If a driver violate...
IMD Weather Forecast: Very Heavy Rain Alert for Sikkim, West Bengal and Bihar on October 30
New Delhi, October 30 : IMD Weather Forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of eastern and northeastern India on Friday, October 30, with Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim among the regions expected to experience intense rainfall. The weather department has also forecast [] The post IMD Weather Forecast: Very Heavy Rain Alert for Sikkim, West Bengal and Bihar on October 30 appeared first on The Voice Of Sikkim .
Bihar Museum in world top 10, ahead of Met, Louvre
Rohini Acharya's 'Tejashwi Yadav + Prashant Kishor' Equation For Bihar
In a post on social media, Rohini Acharya said the BJP has always benefited from a fragmented opposition. If the opposition unites... and prevents the splitting of votes, defeating the BJP is entirely possible, she said
Major Animal Smuggling Bust In Ghazipur
Nine alleged animal smugglers from Bihar and Jharkhand were arrested in Uttar Pradesh's Ghazipur district on Thursday. Police rescued 17 animals being transported in a cruel manner in three pickup vans and recovered mobile phones and cash from the accused. A case has been registered under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.
Over 50 shops gutted in Patna market fire
PPU extends UG exam form submission deadline to Oct 31
JD(U) to celebrate Nov 24 as Good Governance Day
Farmers trained in sustainable techniques under rabi campaign
C K Anil appointed education dept ACS in Nihar bureaucratic reshuffle
SBPDCL spends Rs66 lakh on digital upgrade of Patna Science College
Wanted criminal held after gunfight with police in Samastipur
Man breaks down as police reunite him with children allegedly abandoned by mother
Mangal Mahrour handed captaincy as Bihar ring changes after hat-trick of defeats in Ranji Trophy
Rs2k-cr drinking water project for 3 towns: CM
Woman found hanging in Gopalganj
The Bihar government has appointed CK Anil as the Additional Chief Secretary of Education, along with other IAS officer changes. Bihar Government Reshuffles IAS Officers, Appoints CK Anil as Additional Chief Secretary of Education
RJD wrests Darbhanga Graduates seat from BJP after late vote shift
Tejashwi Yadav Calls Bihar Election Results a Sign of Change for NDA
Tejashwi Yadav praises RJDs success in Bihar elections, viewing it as a mandate against NDA policies and a call for change. Tejashwi Yadav Calls Bihar Election Results a Sign of Change for NDA
Tripura Police seize 200 rounds of live cartridges, one arrested
Digital Desk | Agartala, Oct 29 (IANS) The Tripura Police on Thursday seized 200 rounds of live cartridges from a passenger-carrying vehicle during a naka checking operation at Maharani in Gomati district and arrested an arms trafficker in connection with the seizure, police said. A senior police official confirmed the seizure and arrest, saying that the vehicle, a Max, was travelling from Agartala towards Raishyabari in Dhalai district when it was intercepted by police near Maharani Police Outpost. According to the official, police stopped the vehicle during a routine checking operation and conducted a search, during which 200 rounds of live cartridges were recovered. One person, identified as Bimal Chakma alias Jayanta Lal Chakma, 37, was subsequently arrested in connection with the incident. However, police have withheld the identity of the arrested person, citing the ongoing investigation. Following the seizure, police launched a probe to determine the source of the cartridges and their intended destination. Investigators are also examining the circumstances under which the ammunition was being transported and whether other individuals were involved in the consignment. The investigation is underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the transportation of the live cartridges and determine whether others were involved in the case. Tripura has witnessed multiple arrests of suspected arms dealers, mostly from Bihar, over the past few years, with most of the cases involving illegal firearms allegedly smuggled into the Northeastern state, often through train routes. On September 6, in a joint operation, the Tripura Police and Assam Rifles arrested two suspected arms dealers after they arrived in Agartala from Bihar. During the search, two pistols, three magazines and eight rounds of 7.65 mm ammunition, along with two mobile phones, were recovered from their possession. In a joint operation, the Tripura Police and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) had earlier arrested two suspected arms and drug peddlers after they arrived in Agartala on an express train. The Tripura Police personnel and RPF troops recovered a loaded pistol and around 100 bottles of banned cough syrup from the possession of two youths from Bihar after detaining them at the Agartala railway station. In November last year, the Tripura Police arrested three persons, including an alleged arms supplier from Bihar, after seizing two country-made firearms and four magazines during a patrol operation in Agartala. On May 8 last year, eight pistols and 16 empty magazines were recovered from an express train at Agartala railway station. The Government Railway Police (GRP) and RPF, in a joint operation, recovered the arms from the Tripura Sundari Express after the train arrived from Punjab's Firozpur. Tripura, which has an 856 km border with Bangladesh, is surrounded on three sides by the neighbouring country, making the Northeastern state very vulnerable and sensitive to cross-border migration issues, smuggling of drugs, arms and various other contrabands. Except for some patches, most of the frontier had been fenced to prevent smuggling, trans-border crimes, cross-border illegal movements by infiltrators and inimical elements.
UP Legislative Council polls: Results for graduate and teachers constituencies declared
Digital Desk | Lucknow, Oct 29 (IANS) The counting of votes for the 2026 biennial elections to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council concluded on Thursday, with results declared for five Graduate and six Teachers constituencies. Both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Samajwadi Party secured significant wins across the seats. In the Graduate constituencies, the BJP retained Meerut and Agra, while the Samajwadi Party swept Allahabad-Jhansi, Lucknow and Varanasi. In Meerut Graduate, Dinesh Kumar Goyal of the BJP emerged victorious with 24,929 votes, defeating Pramendra Singh Bhati of the Samajwadi Party, who polled 12,073 votes. In Agra Graduate, Dr Manvendra Pratap Singh Guru Ji of the BJP secured 42,743 votes to defeat Shashank Yadav Sheetu of the SP, who got 27,734 votes. The Samajwadi Party emerged victorious in the remaining three Graduate seats. Man Singh Yadav won the Allahabad-Jhansi seat with 60,358 votes against BJPs Ashok Kumar Rathore (32,695 votes). In Lucknow Graduate, Kanti Singh of the SP polled 56,905 votes to defeat Er. Avnish Kumar Singh of the BJP (39,778 votes). Ashutosh Sinha of the SP won Varanasi Graduate with 55,046 votes, while BJPs Kedarnath Singh secured 35,114 votes. In the Teachers constituencies, the BJP won four seats and the Samajwadi Party two. Umesh Dwivedi of the BJP won Lucknow Teachers with 13,179 votes against Sushil Kumar of the SP (8,371 votes). In Meerut Teachers, Shrichand Sharma of the BJP secured a decisive win with 18,099 votes, while SPs Dr Nitin Tomar managed only 4,858 votes. Hari Singh Dhillon of the BJP won Bareilly-Moradabad Teachers with 21,672 votes against Haji Danish Akhtar of the SP (3,996 votes). Dhruv Kumar Tripathi of the BJP retained Gorakhpur-Faizabad Teachers with 16,790 votes, narrowly defeating Independent candidate Rajiv Yadav, who polled 14,580 votes. The Samajwadi Party opened its account in the Teachers segment with wins in Varanasi and Agra. Lal Bihari Yadav won Varanasi Teachers with 11,612 votes against BJPs Pramod Kumar Mishra (6,597 votes). In Agra Teachers, Akash Agarwal of the SP defeated BJPs Hari Kishore Tiwari by securing 14,046 votes to 9,783. The results show a mixed outcome, with both major parties consolidating their positions in different regions of the state. Graduates and teachers constituencies are special voter groups in India that elect members to the State Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad), the upper house in states with a bicameral legislature. Under Article 171 of the Indian Constitution, one-twelfth (1/12) of the members of a Legislative Council are elected by graduates, and another one-twelfth are elected by teachers.
JD-U to observe Nov 24 as Good Governance Day to mark Nitish Kumars two decades in power
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 29 (IANS) The Janata Dal (United) will observe November 24 as Good Governance Day (Sushasan Diwas) to mark the 20th anniversary of Nitish Kumar taking over as Bihar Chief Minister in 2005. The party will organise state-level Nitish Samvad programmes to highlight development initiatives, public welfare schemes and social reforms undertaken during his two-decade tenure. A preparatory meeting was held on Thursday at Karpoori Hall at the JD(U) state headquarters in Patna. Chaired by state president Umesh Singh Kushwaha, the meeting discussed the programmes framework, preparations and responsibilities for ensuring its successful organisation. JD(U) National Working President Sanjay Kumar Jha, state ministers Leshi Singh and Shweta Gupta, Legislative Council Deputy Leader Lalan Kumar Saraf, Chief Whip Sanjay Kumar Singh Gandhi, headquarters in-charge Shambhu Kushwaha and several other party office-bearers attended the meeting. Legislators, district presidents and representatives of various party wings were also present. Leshi Singh has been appointed coordinator of the programme. Addressing the meeting, Jha called for showcasing the achievements of Nitish Kumars government over the past two decades and highlighting their impact on peoples lives. He cited initiatives such as the bicycle scheme, Jeevika self-help groups and entrepreneurship programmes, directing party leaders to compile information about beneficiaries and prepare videos featuring their experiences. Jha described Nitish Kumar as both a political leader and a social reformer, citing initiatives such as human chains to raise awareness about social issues. He urged party workers to communicate the impact of the governments policies and public welfare schemes to people across Bihar. Kushwaha said Bihar faced major challenges in law and order, education, healthcare, employment and infrastructure when Nitish Kumar assumed office on November 24, 2005. He said the government subsequently pursued improvements in governance, development and welfare delivery, with a focus on reaching marginalised sections of society. He directed district presidents to constitute preparatory committees, coordinate with different party wings and assign responsibilities. The programmes should involve farmers, students, women, social workers, beneficiaries of reservation policies and pension schemes, among other groups. Beneficiaries of government schemes should be identified and invited to share how the initiatives have affected their lives. Leshi Singh said the programme was an important occasion for the party to highlight Nitish Kumars work for Bihars development and the welfare of different sections of society. She assured the leadership that preparations would be undertaken with the involvement of party leaders and workers. Saraf stressed the need to take information about the governments initiatives to every household, particularly to make younger generations aware of Bihars earlier conditions and the changes witnessed over the years. Sanjay Kumar Singh Gandhi also urged party workers to ensure the success of the programmes, highlighting Nitish Kumars emphasis on the rule of law and his efforts to connect with the public. At the meeting, Kushwaha also congratulated Jha on representing India at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
From Patna to Kanpur, can an emerging market fix dirty, broken cities?
Patna is set to become the first municipality in Bihar to issue municipal bonds, raising Rs 200 crore for urban infrastructure. This move highlights the ongoing need for investment in India's urban infrastructure amid challenges like urban flooding and sanitation. Other cities like Kanpur are also expected to follow with their own bond issues soon. However, many municipalities still struggle with reliable revenue sources needed for debt repayment.
19 children rescued from child labour in Delhis Gandhi Nagar, nine factory owners held
Children aged between 10 and 17 years were brought to Delhi from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar and had been working at these units for about eight months
Diwali Demand Boosts Marigold Farming Income for Jehanabad Farmers in Bihar
Marigold cultivation in Jehanabad rises with festival demand, offering farmers a profitable alternative to traditional crops and supporting rural livelihoods in Bihar.
Tigress from Buxa reserve, recently relocated from Bihar, enters Assam
MLC Election Result: BJP- ! Congress 1 ?
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Weather Tomorrow, October 30: The India Meteorological Department has forecast significant thunderstorms and hailstorms in Delhi and nearby regions. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected across several states, including Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. A new low-pressure area has formed over the South Andaman Sea, likely intensifying into a depression. Rescue operations are ongoing in Odisha due to recent floods from Cyclone Arnab, affecting many villages.
Eight special teams deployed to apprehend Whitefield advocate murder suspects
Manjunath was shot dead at his residence in Pattandur Agrahara on October 18 by his two tenants, natives of Bihar
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 29 (IANS) In a major push to curb road accidents and ensure stricter compliance with traffic regulations, the Bihar government has ordered intensified enforcement actions across the state. As part of the ongoing drive, authorities have already suspended or cancelled the driving licenses of approximately 15,000 traffic offenders. Drivers caught behind the wheel despite having their licenses suspended or revoked now face immediate vehicle seizure. The directives were issued during an executive committee meeting of the Bihar Road Safety Councils lead agency held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Development Commissioner Mihir Kumar Singh. Reviewing state-level safety measures, Development Commissioner Singh instructed the Transport Department to ensure that all official recommendations for driving license suspensions are processed strictly within a 15-day timeframe. The administration aims to eliminate procedural delays in penalising repeat offenders and maintain a swift, zero-tolerance protocol against major traffic breaches. Under the newly enforced guidelines, routine traffic checks will verify license statuses electronically. If an individual whose license is under suspension or permanent cancellation is found operating a vehicle, law enforcement personnel will immediately impound the vehicle on the spot. Officials stated that this strict measure is designed to serve as a deterrent and prevent unauthorised drivers from endangering public safety. The high-level meeting focused on establishing an integrated approach to lower traffic fatalities and building a safer transit environment. Senior representatives from key departments participated in the strategy session, including the Transport Department, Road Construction Department, Home Department, Health Department, Disaster Management Department, Education Department, Urban Development and Housing Department, alongside officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). Emphasising inter-departmental coordination, the committee instructed agencies to accelerate road safety projects and enforce traffic guidelines rigorously statewide. The administration reaffirmed its commitment to curbing road mishaps through sustained monitoring, targeted enforcement drives, and strict legal action against violators.
MLC results are out, but how does the election work? Who votes, how are members chosen?
In the recent Legislative Council elections, the BJP secured 13 seats across multiple states including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The Samajwadi Party and NCP followed with five and two seats respectively, while other parties earned one seat each. MLC elections differ significantly from Assembly elections, as they are not decided by a direct vote from the general public. Members are chosen through various categories, including local authorities and graduates constituencies.
Diwali-Chhath School Break 2026: Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, And Jharkhand Holiday Dates
The official calendar released by the government of Uttar Pradesh has marked November 8 (Diwali), November 9 (Govardhan Puja), November 11 (Bhaiya Dooj) as gazetted holidays.
Patna Jn metro station work advances with D-wall construction
NDA secures 4 seats in Bihar council polls, PK's Jan Suraaj Party opens account
Digital Desk | Patna, Oct 29 (IANS) The ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) won four of the eight seats in the Bihar Legislative Council elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) bagging three constituencies and the Janata Dal (United) securing one, according to official results declared on Wednesday. The Opposition Mahagathbandhan suffered significant setbacks due to internal seat-sharing disputes, while Prashant Kishor's Jan Suraaj Party (JSU) registered its maiden breakthrough in the state's upper house by capturing the Darbhanga Teachers' constituency. Two constituencies elected independent representatives, including a former rebel BJP candidate. The results for eight key seats in the Bihar Legislative Council have been declared, shifting political dynamics across the state. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won three and ally JD (U) claimed one. The Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party secured one seat each, while two seats went to independent candidates, including a rebel BJP candidate. The BJP contested four seats, and the party has impressively won three seats: Kosi Graduate, Darbhanga Graduate and Tirhut Teacher seats. The success rate of the saffron party was 75 per cent. N.K. Yadav won the Kosi Graduate seat, while the Darbhanga Graduate seat was bagged by Sarvesh Kumar. Narendra Prasad Singh won the Tirhut Teacher seat. The Patna Graduates' constituency election served as a high-stakes litmus test for Nishant Kumar, son of former Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Spearheading the campaign for JD(U) candidate Neeraj Kumar, Nishant successfully organised vote transfers across key demographics, including the Kurmi, Bhumihar, and Extremely Backward Classes (EBC) segments. Despite internal party friction including Mokama MLA Anant Singh actively campaigning for Jan Suraaj candidate Anuj Singh and Lok Sabha MP Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh maintaining distance from the campaignNeeraj Kumar secured a decisive victory. Analysts and party leaders have pointed out that this victory significantly elevates Nishants political standing within the JD(U). However, JD(U) suffered defeats in the other three seats it contested (Tirhut Graduates, Darbhanga Teachers, and Saran Teachers). Following its earlier win in the Bankipur assembly by-election, JSU officially opened its account in the Legislative Council. Suresh Prasad Rai won the Darbhanga Teachers' constituency, inflicting a political setback to JD (U) national working president Sanjay Jha in his home region of Mithilanchal. While JSU contested all eight seats, its breakthrough in Darbhanga reinforces its emerging presence as a third force in Bihar politics. Infighting within the opposition Mahagathbandhan severely impacted its performance, as Congress and RJD fielded competing candidates against each other in five constituencies. Former State Congress President Madan Mohan Jha lost his seat in the Darbhanga Teachers' constituency, leaving the party without a single win. Professor Sanjay Singh of the Communist Party of India (CPI) failed to retain the Tirhut Teachers' seat after holding it for two consecutive terms. The RJD secured a victory in the Patna Teachers' constituency, as Dr. Sanjiv Kumar defeated veteran BJP leader Nawal Kishore Yadav, though it fell short in five other contested seats.
Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil reviews Ganga basin flood control initiatives
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil reviewed the planning and implementation of measures to address flood, erosion and drainage problems in the Ganga basin during the 19th meeting of the Ganga Flood Control Board (GFCB), an official said on Thursday. Patil led discussions on preparation of risk-based basin Master Plans, assessment of the adequacy of waterways and ventways under bridges, improving the quality of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), timely implementation of flood management projects and application of modern technologies in flood management, the official said in a statement. During the review meeting held on Tuesday, the Union Minister emphasised coordination among Union Ministries, state governments and other stakeholders, particularly in addressing issues relating to river morphology, drainage congestion, infrastructure development and flood resilience, the statement said. The meeting reaffirmed the importance of an integrated, risk-informed and technology-enabled approach to flood management, supported by effective Centrestate cooperation, improved technical standards and coordinated implementation of flood management measures across the Ganga basin, it added. The Union Minister also highlighted importance of modern survey techniques, sound technical investigations, appropriate statutory clearances and timely resolution of project implementation bottlenecks. The meeting was attended by Suvendu Adhikari, Chief Minister of West Bengal; Ram Nath Thakur, Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; K. V. Raju, NITI Aayog member; Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister; Swatantra Dev Singh, Uttar Pradesh Jal Shakti Minister; representatives of the Ganga basin states; senior officials of the Central and state governments; and representatives of the concerned agencies, the statement said. The Board, chaired by the Union Jal Shakti Minister, provides a high-level institutional platform for strengthening Centrestate cooperation and coordinated flood management across the Ganga basin. The meeting chaired by C.R. Patil on Tuesday provided an opportunity to review ongoing initiatives, strengthen interstate coordination and deliberate upon emerging approaches for effective flood management. The Board, constituted by the Union government on April 18, 1972, comprises representatives of the concerned Central Ministries and Chief Ministers of the Ganga Basin states or their representatives, with the Ganga Flood Control Commission (GFCC) Chairman Er. Sher Singh, serving as its Member Secretary, the statement said.
Restore voting rights of 13 crore disenfranchised people, no need for rallies then: Manish Tewari
Digital Desk | Chandigarh, Oct 29 (IANS) Congress MP Manish Tewari on Thursday questioned the BJP's 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy march, saying that restoring the voting rights of 13 crore disenfranchised people would eliminate the need for rallies. The remarks come amid a political face-off between the BJP and the Congress, with both parties claiming to be defending democracy. As the Congress prepares to take its vote chori campaign to Ramlila Maidan on November 1, the BJP has taken its campaign to the streets of Old Delhi, organising a Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy padyatra in busy Chandni Chowk. The BJP is also holding similar marches across the country. Led by BJP President Nitin Nabin and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, the march comes amid concerns raised by traders who fear that barricading, traffic diversions and possible Metro restrictions due to marches and protests during the festive shopping season could disrupt business in the capital's wholesale markets. Speaking to IANS, Tewari questioned the purpose of the BJP's march in an area that is not a designated protest sight in the national Capital. What is this padyatra even about? We are fighting for voting rights. Restore the voting rights of the 13 crore people who have been disenfranchised, and there will be no need to take out any rallies, he said. Tewari also reacted to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's remarks on the recent Member of Legislative Council (MLC) poll results, saying that every election had its own context. The context of every election is different. MLC elections have a distinct electoral constituency. In such a situation, it does not behove someone holding the office of Prime Minister to make such remarks. As I said earlier, every election has its own unique context and scope, he said. On Wednesday, PM Modi took a swipe at the Congress over MLC elections held across 28 seats in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Karnataka, highlighting that the polls were conducted using ballot papers and questioning how many seats the Congress had won. However, the Nagpur MLC election result provided the Congress with an opportunity to target the BJP, including PM Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as it retained the seat in the area that houses the RSS' national headquarters. The Maharashtra results also provided a boost to the Opposition MVA, which won three of the five seats that went to polls in the state.
What the MLC elections do and do not tell us
MLC elections are held for the Legislative Council, the Upper House of a State legislature, which exists in only six of the 28 States Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
